A recent survey by Leger for the Association for Canadian Studies (ACS) reveals significant concerns among Canadians regarding immigrant integration, with two-thirds expressing that there are “too many” immigrants in the country. Additionally, 25% of Canadians believe newcomers should relinquish their customs and traditions, a sentiment especially pronounced among Canadians over 55 and in Quebec, where one-third share this view.
ACS CEO Jack Jedwab notes that while Canadians often cite economic reasons for their concerns, underlying issues around cultural integration persist. “There’s a notable tension between valuing the transmission of traditions and expecting newcomers to forgo their own,” Jedwab explained, calling it ironic given that nearly half of Canada’s population comprises immigrants and their descendants.
Notably, one-third of Canadians feel that religious minorities should avoid wearing overt symbols, with support for this view highest among Canadians over 55. Differences emerge across demographics, with men more likely than women and younger Canadians least likely to agree with such measures.
Regional opinions vary, with 47% of Quebecers, 31% of those in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, and 28% in Atlantic Canada and Alberta/B.C. supporting limits on religious symbols. Quebec residents also strongly believe in passing traditions to future generations.
Dissatisfaction with the government’s immigration approach has intensified since the pandemic, following a recent reduction in immigration targets. The survey further reveals that many Canadians see a correlation between high immigration levels and integration challenges, a viewpoint echoed in the U.S. and Europe, Jedwab warns.
Poll findings indicate that 51% of those critical of immigration feel Canada has “too many” Muslims, and significant minorities express similar views about other groups, suggesting a concerning trend towards stereotyping and stigmatization.
The ACS survey of 1,612 Canadians was conducted in September, with a margin of error of ±2.5%, 19 times out of 20. ( Courtesy, National Post)